The virtual event Deep Cyber Dive 2024 brought together cybersecurity industry experts, focusing on actionable insights and strategies for managed service providers (MSPs). Two industry veterans, Matt Lee and Connor Swalm, joined in a fireside chat to discuss the value of joining an MSP community channel.
Their conversation addressed a common question for many MSP professionals — should they engage with a community channel? The session covered the benefits of joining such communities, from professional growth to overcoming challenges like imposter syndrome. Let's recap the session's key takeaways!
What Is an MSP Community?
An MSP community is a collective of professionals who support one another through knowledge sharing, collaboration and mutual encouragement. These communities can take various forms, from online forums like MSPGeek to smaller peer groups that convene regularly to discuss challenges and opportunities. Healthy MSP communities are characterized by inclusivity, trust and a culture of giving. They offer members access to mentorship, training and resources tailored to their specific needs.
Why Join an MSP Community?
An MSP community provides a space for professionals to connect, collaborate and grow. These communities foster an environment where members can share best practices, troubleshoot ideas and stay ahead of industry trends. The value of active participation cannot be overstated — engaging with a network of like-minded peers creates opportunities for mentorship, skill development and problem-solving.
Whether you're a seasoned MSP or new to the industry, joining a community can help you navigate complexities, gain fresh perspectives and build a strong professional network.
The Importance of Community in the MSP Industry
In the MSP industry, it's essential to find your community, especially given the complexity of challenges and the rapid pace of change. For MSPs, the community is a resource, offering support, guidance and inspiration. These communities provide a safe space to share experiences, celebrate successes and learn from failures.
During the event, Matt shared his journey of overcoming fears and building confidence through community involvement. He emphasized how engaging with peers helped him grow professionally and equipped him to handle adversity with resilience. Connor echoed this notion, highlighting the power of belonging to a group that prioritizes shared learning and mutual success.
Key Takeaways From the Session
Matt and Connor shared their insights into the significance of community engagement for MSPs. Their discussion covered key aspects of what makes an MSP community thrive and why active participation is key for personal and professional growth. Below, we summarize the takeaways from their conversation:
Active Participation Is Key
One of the core themes discussed was the importance of active engagement within community channels. Matt and Connor stressed that simply joining a group is insufficient — meaningful participation is essential. Asking questions, sharing experiences and contributing knowledge benefit the individual and the community.
For example, Matt shared how his willingness to openly discuss challenges led to innovative solutions and stronger relationships within his network. Connor added that even small contributions, like answering a peer's question, can have a ripple effect, fostering collaboration and trust.
Healthy Communities Are Giving Communities
Matt and Connor highlighted that healthy MSP communities thrive on a culture of giving. Members who prioritize helping others create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported, increasing opportunities for open communication. Connor recounted how mentorship within his community played a significant role in his career growth, reinforcing that generosity and collaboration are at the heart of effective communities.
Distinguishing Healthy From Unhealthy Communities
Choosing the right MSP community among the many available options can be challenging. Matt and Connor discussed the red flags of unhealthy communities, such as toxic positivity, excessive self-promotion or a lack of genuine collaboration. Healthy communities, in contrast, encourage constructive feedback, foster accountability and maintain a focus on collective success.
The Value of Diverse Community Types
Matt and Connor noted that different types of MSP communities serve distinct purposes. Broader platforms like MSPGeek provide access to vast resources and perspectives, while smaller groups offer deeper, more personalized connections. Engaging with both types of communities can enhance professional development by giving complementary benefits.
Leveraging Community for Success
Communities are support networks and platforms for building reputations and achieving business success. Connor shared examples of how community participation helped individuals establish themselves as thought leaders, leading to new opportunities and partnerships. Organizations that actively engage in these networks and commit to building relationships can also benefit by gaining visibility and credibility in the industry.
Combating Imposter Syndrome
A recurring theme in the chat was the role of the community in combating imposter syndrome. Many MSPs struggle with self-doubt, especially when faced with complex challenges or technological advancements. Matt and Connor emphasized that supportive communities can help individuals overcome these feelings by providing validation, encouragement and a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles.
The Importance of Non-Anonymity
Matt underscored the importance of non-anonymity in fostering trust and accountability within communities. When members use their real identities, their contributions carry more weight, and interactions become more authentic. This transparency strengthens the community's overall integrity and enhances the value of participation.
So, Are You Going to Join an MSP Community?
MSP communities serve as excellent resources for industry professionals. Matt and Connor's discussion highlighted the importance of active participation, the characteristics of healthy communities and the role of collaboration in overcoming challenges like imposter syndrome. By engaging with an MSP community, you can unlock new opportunities, build lasting relationships and contribute to the collective success of your peers.
Whether you're looking for mentorship, collaboration or a supportive network to combat imposter syndrome, the right community can make all the difference. Engage, learn and grow with your peers — unlock the full potential of your MSP career by joining a community.
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